69 militants infiltrated into Jammu and Kashmir this year: Govt

Sixty-nine militants have infiltrated into Jammu and Kashmir from across the border till June this year, Lok Sabha was informed today.

There were 133 attempts of infiltration by militants from across the border and there were 69 net infiltrations, Union Minister of State for Home Hansraj Gangaram Ahir said in written reply to a question.

Ahir said till June this year, 14 militants were killed while 50 others were returned from border.

A total of 123 militants could enter Jammu and Kashmir following 406 infiltration attempts from across the border in 2017.

“As per reports, some locals have been found supporting militant activities in Jammu and Kashmir. Appropriate action under law is taken against such persons. Security forces have been tackling militancy successfully and as a result 694 militants have been neutralized and 368 militants or suspects have also been apprehended since 2014 to July, 2018,” he said.

The minister said there were 308 incidents of violence in Jammu and Kashmir till July this year in which 113 militants were killed in 90 encounters. Altogether 49 forces personnel were also killed this year so far.

In 2017, till July, there were 191 incidents of violence in which 112 militants were killed in 69 encounters. As many as 39 forces personnel were also killed.

Ahir also said there were 73 incidents of violence during the period of suspension of operation in the month of Ramadhan in comparison to 34 such incidents during the previous month.

A total of 23 militants, eight forces personnel and three civilians were killed during the Ramadhan ceasefire, while 14 militants, five forces personnel and eight civilians were killed in the previous month.

Replying to another question, the minister said the government was aware about the use of social media by the militants in Jammu and Kashmir and the law enforcement agencies monitor the web and social media and take appropriate action as per the law. ( PTI )